ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SPORTS PHYSICALS
For some, a sports physical might seem like just another thing to check off the to-do list. Yet, it’s an important part of ensuring the health and well-being of your child. Sports physicals in Gainesville, GA, make sure that your child is healthy enough to take part in the sports they love and don’t have any underlying conditions that could jeopardize their safety. Whether it’s the first time you’re taking your child for their sports physical, or you’ve done it many times before, here are some things you need to know.
It Doesn’t Take the Place of a Well-Child Visit
The first thing to note is that a sports physical isn’t the same as your child’s annual physical by his or her pediatrician. The difference between the two physicals is that the sports physical focuses on the child’s health as it pertains to the sport they’re interested in playing. Many pediatricians and family doctors will include a sports physical with the well-child visit when instructed, but most teams and schools require proof of a sports physical to take part in the sport.
A Sports Physical Has Four Parts
The first part of the physical includes checking the child’s vitals and noting their blood pressure and pulse. Next, the medical professional checks the child’s height and weight and compares it to last season’s information. This part of the exam is very important because any recent growth spurts can cause added stress to muscles, joints, and bones.
The second part of the exam is an eye exam. It’s important that your child be able to see well to play any sport. The only time medical professionals leave this out of the exam is if the child wears corrective lenses and has an eye doctor they visit regularly.
During the third part of the exam, your child’s pediatrician or the medical professional at the walk-in health clinic reviews the child’s medical history. They’re looking at things that could affect your child’s health, such as recent illnesses, heart or lung conditions, and any other medical conditions.
The final part of the exam is a short fitness test that checks flexibility, posture, and strength. If there are any concerns, the doctor may give your child exercises to do to build strength and flexibility to prepare them better for any sport they play.
Who Need a Sports Physical?
Most school-sanctioned sports require their participants to have a physical. Although physicals aren’t always required for recreational leagues, it’s still a good idea to have one done either as part of your child’s well-visit or at a walk-in medical clinic. It gives you peace of mind that your child can enjoy the sport they love.
Are you new to the area? Are you asking yourself where can you get a sports physical? Lanier Urgent Care is a walk-in clinic in Gainesville, GA, that offers same-day physicals for children of all ages. To learn more about hours of operation and current wait times, call us at (770) 824-4610.
